Stabilisers for Skincare & Cosmetic Formulation

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Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to common questions about choosing and using Essentially Natural ingredients.

What does a stabiliser do in a skincare or cosmetic formula?

A stabiliser helps keep a formula uniform and usable over time. It can support texture, reduce separation, and improve the overall consistency of products like creams, lotions, gels, and cleansers.

Do I need a stabiliser if my formula already looks fine?

Sometimes yes. A formula can look stable at first but still separate, thin out, or change texture over time. A stabiliser can help improve longer-term consistency, especially in more complex formulas.

Can a stabiliser also make my product thicker?

Some can. Certain stabilisers also add viscosity or improve texture, but not all of them are strong thickeners. It is best to check the ingredient’s main function and recommended use.

Can I use more stabiliser to fix a thin or unstable product?

Not always. Adding too much can change the texture, make the formula feel sticky, or create clumping. It is best to work within the recommended usage range for that specific ingredient.

When should I add a stabiliser to my formula?

That depends on the ingredient. Some are added to the water phase, some during cool-down, and others need pre-dispersing before use. Always check the usage method for the specific stabiliser you choose.

Sometimes a formula can destabilise, separate or lose its active properties or functions. Stabilisers are ingredients used in cosmetic formulation to help maintain the structure and consistency of a product over time. They support the stability of emulsions and other formulations by helping ingredients remain evenly distributed.

Stabilisers are often used alongside emulsifiers and thickeners to improve product texture, reduce separation and extend formulation stability.

They are commonly used in products such as:

  • creams and lotions
  • emulsified skincare products
  • haircare formulations
  • cosmetic gels and emulsions

By supporting the overall structure of a formulation, stabilisers help ensure that products maintain their intended texture, appearance and performance throughout their shelf life.